CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The Charleston Police Department is warning about a recent scam targeting senior citizens.
The agency said Wednesday it is investigating five cases where scammers targeted elderly residents, which resulted in losses ranging from $7,000 to $10,000.
The victims, who ranged from ages 61 to 85, were contacted by phone and manipulated into sending money to the scammers. Three of the victims were directed to local Bitcoin ATMs while the scammer stayed on the line to guide large transfers.
“These criminals rely on trust and fear and often prey upon the most vulnerable members of our society,” said Charleston Police officials. “Criminals pressure victims into acting quickly before they have time to think or confirm the story.”
According to police, some common scam tac